FAQ and Resources
Elise’s Corner
Is this my fault? / ¿Es esto mi culpa?
No, this is not your fault. Stillbirths can happen even in the most normal of pregnancies. In most stillbirth cases, no condition was diagnosed during prenatal care. According to the CDC, 22,000 stillbirths occur annually in the U.S.
What is stillbirth? / ¿Qué es la muerte fetal?
As the 5th leading cause of death worldwide, intrauterine fetal demise (IUFD), more commonly known as a stillbirth, is fetal death at the time of delivery. IUFD occurs when a fetus shows no signs of life, characterized as the absence or lack of breathing, heartbeat, and defined movements of muscles. Learn more here.
My baby was stillborn. Am I a parent? / Mi bebé nació muerto. ¿Soy padre?
Yes, you are a parent. You will always be a parent to your child.
How do I gain answers regarding my child(s) death? / ¿Cómo obtengo respuestas sobre la muerte de mi hijo?
According to Oregon Health & Science University Hospital, an autopsy or a post-mortem exam is one of the best ways to understand why your baby died. Although some perinatal autopsies are inconclusive (CDC), you will get some answers.
In most cases, you will get the cause of death. The reported data will help you discern treatment with your provider for your subsequent pregnancy. Through Valentina’s Voice, we will redact personal information and share your report(s) with hospitals and institutions researching the cause of stillbirths in the spirit of prevention nationally and globally.
What is a perinatal autopsy? / ¿Qué es una autopsia perinatal?
During this exam, babies are treated with dignity and respect. Contrary to popular belief, THIS IS NOT A DESECRATION OF YOUR CHILD’S BODY. All incisions are hidden with regular clothes, you can still have an open-casket burial, and the face and hands are not part of the exam.
What is the cost of a perinatal autopsy or post-mortem exam? / ¿Cuál es el costo de una autopsia perinatal o un examen post mortem?
A perinatal autopsy costs, on average, $1,200-$1,500. We will cover the cost if your insurance doesn’t. Additional exams may cost up to $2,500. Contact us. We are happy to help you figure this out.
Can you recommend any resources or grief groups? / ¿Puede recomendar algún recurso o grupo de duelo?
Please see the links under “Education and Advocacy” below.
Valentina’s Voice
[email protected]
(929) 312-7000
P.O. Box 130
322 W. 52nd St.
New York, NY 10101
© Valentina’s Voice
501(c)(3) EIN 92-3279241
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